Daily Archive : Wednesday June 25, 2014

News

ECC wins four major ICCTA awardsSubmitted by Elgin Community CollegeThe Illinois Community College Trustees Association honored Elgin Community College with four out of eight major awards at a banquet in Springfield on Friday, June 6.

North Aurora man seriously injured in motorcycle collisionDaily Herald reportTwo motorcycles crashed into each other in the village of Virgil Wednesday afternoon, seriously injuring a North Aurora man, police said. The driver of the first motorcycle was airlifted to Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove with potentially life-threatening injuries.

Life on the farm at PrimroseBy Brooke Herbert Hayes Several people head to Primrose Farm in St. Charles to experience life on the farm in the mid-20th century.

Elgin City Council honors 27 new U.S. citizensBy Elena FerrarinThe Elgin City Council recognized 27 new citizens Wednesday, marking the 16th annual such ceremony that typically takes place around the Fourth of July. All of the new citizens either live, work or have taken citizenship classes in Elgin. Centro de Informacion Executive Director Jaime Garcia, a naturalized citizen himself, introduced the new citizens to the city council.

Chicago-area lawyer sent to prison for 15 yearsAssociated PressA Chicago-area lawyer and accountant labeled by the government as history’s most prolific and unrepentant tax cheat was sentenced Wednesday to 15 years in prison, and the judge bemoaned the “incredible greed” of some of America’s wealthiest people for taking advantage of the tax shelters he peddled.

Rauner proposes ending some corporate tax breaksAssociated PressRepublican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Rauner called Wednesday for ending certain corporate tax breaks and “special deals” he says are unfair to Illinois’ working families. The wealthy Winnetka businessman ripped Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn for allowing tax incentives for companies that later laid off workers and tax “loopholes” for the oil industry and people...

(No heading)Paws to Sing: Macaroni Soup program at GRayslake Public Library staring at 6:30pm. Wiggle, giggle, hop, stomp. Celebrate with us and sing along as we join Carol Stephens for music and movement activities for kids. We'll be outdoors for this performance so you can sing and dance too! This is a free family concert to be held on the front lawn. Come early, bring a family picnic, and enjoy some...

Batavia officials suggest redevelopment for west side neighborhoodBy Susan SarkauskasAn aged industrial area on the west side of Batavia, plus the residential and commercial properties around it, could see change to include multifamily residential and commercial under a proposal city officials are floating. "A city is a changing organism over time," administrator Bill McGrath said.

Federal appeals court: Gays have right to marryAssociated PressA federal appeals court ruled Wednesday that states must allow gay couples to marry, finding the Constitution protects same-sex relationships and putting a remarkable legal winning streak across the country one step closer to the U.S. Supreme Court. The three-judge panel in Denver ruled 2-1 that states cannot deprive people of the fundamental right to marry simply because they want to be wedded...

Historic Busse building in Mount Prospect to be razedBy Melissa SilverbergThe Busse building in downtown Mount Prospect cannot be saved, and the whole thing will be demolished over the next month, village officials said. A devastating fire ravaged the building in February. “The building was a total loss,” the village's Dave Strahl said. “I’m sure from a financial standpoint it wasn’t viable based on the age and the damage.”

Boehner says House plans to sue ObamaAssociated PressThe House will vote next month on legislation authorizing a campaign-season lawsuit accusing President Barack Obama of failing to carry out the laws passed by Congress, Speaker John Boehner announced on Wednesday. In a memo distributed to House members, Boehner accused Obama of “aggressive unilateralism.”

Two people, dog rescued from Fox River in AlgonquinBy Lenore T. AdkinsFirefighters from the Algonquin-Lake in the Hills Fire Protection District rescued two people and a dog after their boat got stuck under an Algonquin bridge Wednesday afternoon, officials said. Firefighters rescued the group by putting them in another boat “It looked dramatic for a few seconds, but it was pretty routine,” Fire Chief Peter Van Dorp said.

Court battle continues over Palatine apartments for disabledBy Doug T. GrahamThe village of Palatine will be back before a Cook County judge next month contesting a lawsuit filed against them by the developer of a proposed apartment building for people with disabilities. In March, Cook County Judge Neil H. Cohen granted the village’s motion to dismiss the case, but the developer is asking the judge to reconsider his decision.

Wauconda leaders calling dibs on village hall parking spotsBy Russell LissauIf you're one of the people who's surreptitiously been parking in the spots reserved for the mayor and trustees at Wauconda's village hall, your impersonation days may soon be over. Officials are considering formal rules that save those spots for the town's elected leaders.

With Town Center on the line, Wheeling makes final offerBy Deborah DonovanWheeling has made a “very, very generous” — and final — offer to the four government bodies threatening to sue if the village board establishes two new tax increment financing districts, Village President Dean Argiris said this week. He said if the parties sue, the Town Center project in Wheeling is doomed.

Giants’ Lincecum pitches 2nd no-hitter vs PadresAssociated PressTim Lincecum pitched his second no-hitter against the San Diego Padres in less than a year, allowing only one runner Wednesday and leading the San Francisco Giants to a 4-0 win. Lincecum totally shut down the weakest-hitting team in the majors, striking out six and walking one. "I didn't feel like my stuff was great," he said. No matter, Lincecum retired the final 23 batters after walking Chase...

Judge sets 2018 deadline for effort to save lynxAssociated PressA federal judge on Wednesday set a 2018 deadline for the government to complete a long-delayed recovery plan for imperiled Canada lynx in the Lower 48 states. Wildlife advocates had asked U.S. District Judge Donald Molloy to push the government into faster action on the snow-loving big cats, which were added to the list of threatened species in 2000.

Kane County morgue mold might have simple fixBy James FullerThe mold that shuttered the Kane County morgue recentlyk is not dangerous, according to test results board Chairman Chris Lauzen sought separate from Coroner Rob Russell. Russell has not yet announced his test results, but the morgue remains closed with services being provided by DuPage County. The costs of that arrangement are not fully known, but Lauzen said Wednesday it may be worth seeing if...

Corvette museum likely to keep part of sinkholeBy BRUCE SCHREINERA massive sinkhole that swallowed eight prized sports cars at the National Corvette Museum has become such a popular attraction that officials want to preserve it — and may even put one or two of the crumpled cars back inside the hole.

Oakton Community College closed July 7Daily Herald reportThe Des Plaines and Skokie campuses of Oakton Community College will be closed Monday, July 7, in observance of Independence Day, officials said.

Body of Wheaton woman found in riverBy Sara HookerThe body of a Wheaton woman missing since a weekend boating accident on the Illinois River has been found, Grundy County coroner’s officials said. Emily Anne Hendricks, 24, was pronounced dead at about 12:35 p.m. Wednesday.

Body of Naperville man discovered in Illinois RiverBy Sara HookerA Naperville man who disappeared while swimming in the Illinois River on Sunday has been found. Alberto Rodriquez Jr., 35, entered the river from an anchored boat near Illini State Park to cool off and was swept down river.

Suburban baker opens Sweet T’s cake shop in Arlington Hts.By Melissa SilverbergTo Tammy Montesinos, baking a cake is more than just mixing together flour, eggs and sugar. “A cake is a memory you’re building for people,” said Montesinos, who is bringing those memories, and herrecipes, to her new shop, Sweet T’s Bakery & Cake Studio in downtown Arlington Heights.

Harvey accused of fraudulent bond offeringAssociated PressA federal judge issued an emergency order Wednesday to stop South suburban Harvey from marketing a bond sale to potential investors after the Securities and Exchange Commission claimed the city had a history of fraudulently diverting funds.

Charges against hot-air balloon pilot in Huntley possibleBy Madhu KrishnamurthyHuntley Police Chief John Perkins said Wednesday a hot-air balloon pilot’s decision to land in a residential neighborhood was “irresponsible” and could result in charges against the pilot. The balloon carrying four people took off from a Hampshire airport and landed at 7:27 a.m. Tuesday in the middle of an intersection at Songbird Lane and Windy Prairie Drive in the Sun City...

RTA board elects Kirk Dillard to lead agencyBy Marni PykeThe RTA board picked state Sen. Kirk Dillard as its new leader Wednesday. Dillard commutes from Hinsdale to his law office in Chicago using Metra and has said he understands transit from a city and suburban perspective. “I understand closely what it’s like to be a suburbanite dependent on Metra and Pace,” Dillard said.

Charity scammers target Fox River Grove neighborhoodBy Madhu KrishnamurthyThe Fox River Grove Police Department is warning residents of charity scammers who have been making the rounds in the village. Earlier this month, a group of people falsely identifying themselves as fundraisers for Crystal Lake-based charity Andrea Lynn Cancer Fund canvassed a Fox River Grove neighborhood soliciting donations, Police Chief Ron Lukasik said.

Mundelein pageants on Sunday:Daily Herald reportGirls and young women will compete in the annual Mundelein pageants Sunday. The Little Miss, Junior Miss and Miss Mundelein pageants all will be held the same night, rather than on consecutive nights.

Murphy wants Quinn to testify on anti-violence programAssociated PressState Sen. Matt Murphy of Palatine called Wednesday for Gov. Pat Quinn to testify before a legislative commission over a scandal-plagued anti-violence program the same day a published report showed the Quinn initiative gave money to a nonexistent program that claimed to help former inmates.

Record number of ash trees chopped in BarringtonDoug T. GrahamThe village of Barrington has cut down more ash trees infested with the emerald ash borer this year than any other on record. Mark Werksman, the village public works director, said 550 trees have been chopped down so far in 2014 and there will be more removed before the year is done. In 2013, 128 trees were removed and in 2012 there were 39.

Elk Grove hires assistant village managerDaily Herald reportElk Grove Village has hired a new assistant village manager to replace Joe Carey, who left to become assistant village manager/director of community development in Vernon Hills.

Island Lake board meets:Daily Herald reportThe Island Lake village board will meet today to discuss increasing fines for people who don’t cut their grass, an appointment to the lake management committee and other business.

Storm debris collection:Daily Herald reportBecause of the recent weather-related damage in Wauconda, the local public works department will collect debris from trees and bushes through Monday, June 30.

Libertyville history on display:Daily Herald reportPhotos of the people, businesses and the key issues and events in Libertyville over 100 years will be on display in the foyer at St. Lawrence Church, 125 W. Church St., for three days each in June, July and August to coordinate with local events.

Quinn signs bill to let psychologists prescribe medicationAssociated PressGov. Pat Quinn has signed off on a measure that allows psychologists in Illinois to prescribe medication to patients. Psychologists have to receive specific training for prescription-writing privileges and be required to work with a coordinating physician.

Justices rule for broadcasters in fight with Internet TV serviceAssociated PressThe Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that a startup Internet company has to pay broadcasters when it takes television programs from the airwaves and allows subscribers to watch them on smartphones and other portable devices. The justices said by a 6-3 vote that Aereo Inc. is violating the broadcasters’ copyrights by taking the signals for free. The ruling preserves the ability of the...

Chicago passes strict gun store lawAssociated PressThe Chicago City Council, forced by a federal judge to allow gun sales in the city, approved an ordinance Wednesday that dramatically limits where those stores can open and puts owners on alert that the city will be looking over their shoulders every time they sell a gun.

Coroner: Body found in forest preserve is missing Gurnee manBy Lee FilasThe body found last week in a Lake County forest preserve has been identified as that of a missing Gurnee man, authorities said Wednesday. Lake County Coroner Thomas Rudd said DNA testing proved the victim was Andy Adler, 57, who disappeared after a June 8 bike ride.

Chicago mayor: George Lucas museum boon for cityAssociated PressChicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel says “Star Wars” creator George Lucas’ decision to build his museum of art and movie memorabilia will give the city a museum campus as impressive as the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.

Exonerated men will be paid $40 million settlementAssociated PressFive men convicted and later cleared of the 1991 rape and murder of a South suburban girl have reached a $40 million settlement in a lawsuit against the Illinois State Police, their attorneys said Wednesday.

Tri-Cities police reportsStephen S. Potisuk, 59, of St. Charles, was charged with aggravated battery of a police officer, aggravated battery of an EMT and aggravated resisting arrest at 9:54 p.m. June 19, according to a sheriff’s report. He is accused of pushing and shoving medics and sheriff’s deputies who responded to the 44W100 block of Empire Road to treat a patient who subsequently refused to be...

RTA start means Senate end for DillardBy Mike Riopell and Marni PykeThe start of state Sen. Kirk Dillard’s term as chairman of the RTA will signal the earlier than expected end to his more than 20 year career in the Illinois Senate. Dillard will step down from his Senate seat in late July before his Aug. 1 RTA starting date.

Legendary guitarist John Primer entertains at Independence GroveBy Gilbert Boucher IIGuitarist John Primer and The Real Deal Blues Band played the Chicago blues during Events on the Plaza outdoor concert Tuesday night at Independence Grove near Libertyville. The legendary blues man has played his electric slide guitar with Muddy Waters, Junior Wells, Willie Dixon and Magic Slim.

Forest View High 40th reunionDaily Herald reportThe 40th reunion of Forest View High School’s Class of 1974 is set for Saturday, July 19, on the rooftop at Durty Nellie’s in Palatine.

Kerry issues warning after Syria bombs IraqAssociated PressU.S. Secretary of State John Kerry warned Mideast nations on Wednesday against taking new military action in Iraq that might heighten sectarian divisions, after Syria launched airstrikes across the border and Iran flew surveillance drones over the neighboring country.

Supreme Court: ‘Get a warrant’ to search cellphonesAssociated PressIn an emphatic defense of privacy in the digital age, a unanimous Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that police generally may not search the cellphones of people they arrest without first getting search warrants.

Prison sentence stands in Oak Brook armed robberyBy Justin KmitchA Detroit man serving an eight-year prison sentence for the armed robbery of an Oakbrook Center jewelry store may have come to grips with the seriousness of his crime, but it won’t help shorten his sentence. DuPage Judge Blanche Hill Fawell refused Wednesday to reconsider the sentence she first handed down in December to 25-year-old Levert Jones.

District 41 moving to increase Internet safetyBy Safiya MerchantGlen Ellyn Elementary District 41 is buying a new Internet filter to better prevent students from accessing inappropriate content — including pornography — while at school. The school board on Monday agreed to spend $33,000 to buy the necessary hardware and software along with three years of licensing and support for a Smoothwall content filter. The decision comes after officials...

DuPage County resumes battle against gypsy mothsBy Robert SanchezThe annual fight against gypsy moths, whose caterpillars can defoliate oaks and other trees, is set to begin next week in DuPage County’s forest preserves. Forest preserve officials say the Illinois Department of Agriculture is expected to spray for the moths beginning June 30 in the southeastern and northwestern part of the county.

DuPage Children’s Museum leader building exhibits, partnershipsBy Marie WilsonThe new leader of the DuPage Children's Museum is well-versed in educational theory, sciences, finances and leadership, but she knows what really matters at a museum for kids: fun. “Learning is a byproduct of having fun,” said Sarah Orleans, who took over in February as the museum's president and CEO. “It becomes a byproduct of getting children excited about their own ideas,...

AP: Christie faces another bridge probeAssociated PressAn 82-year-old steel truss bridge featured in the opening credits of “The Sopranos” and in Orson Welles’ 1938 broadcast of “War of the Worlds” is now the second bridge for which Gov. Chris Christie’s administration is facing an investigation. Officials are investigating whether $1.8 billion in funding to overhaul the decaying Pulaski Skyway was...

Housing study to focus on conditions, opportunities in Round Lake areaBy Mick ZawislakThe four Round Lake communities and Hainesville will work with the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning on a yearlong housing analysis. "They want to see them (recommendations) as actionable steps," said Maggie Morales, manager of community engagement at the Lake County Community Foundation, which made the application to the agency for staff assistance.

Rolling Meadows residents lobby for street repairsBy Deborah DonovanForty residents of Rolling Meadows' Fairfax Village neighborhood attended the city council meeting Tuesday to support calls for repairing their streets. Mayor Tom Rooney said after the meeting that there is a good chance the project will be funded, perhaps as soon as next year.

9/11 museum counts 300K visitors since May openingAssociated PressMore than 300,000 people have visited the Sept. 11 museum since it opened little more than a month ago, exceeding expectations, officials said this week. Organizers see it as a strong start for the ground zero museum, which had faced questions about its $24 ticket price.

What drives migrants to head to the U.S.?Associated PressThe number of unaccompanied minors detained on the U.S. border has more than tripled since 2011. Children are also widely believed to be crossing with their parents in rising numbers, although the Obama administration has not released year-by-year figures. The crisis has sparked weeks of bitter political debate inside the U.S., with the administration saying crime is driving migrants north and...

Beyond cure? Europe euthanasia rulings sear debateAssociated PressA French doctor was acquitted Wednesday of poisoning charges after giving lethal injections to seven terminally ill patients, and Britain’s Supreme Court said an assisted-suicide ban is incompatible with human rights, fueling the arguments of those who say the duty of doctors is to end the suffering of those beyond treatment. The rulings cast new light on the legal struggle over medical...

Russia annuls sanction for use of force in UkraineAssociated PressOn Russian President Vladimir Putin’s demand, the upper house of the Russian parliament on Wednesday canceled a resolution allowing the use of military in Ukraine, a move intended to show Moscow’s eagerness to de-escalate tensions and avoid a new round of Western sanctions. Putin had said his request, made a day earlier, was intended to help support the peace process in Ukraine,...

In Iraq, former militia program eyed for new fightAssociated PressThey were known as the Sahwa, or the Awakening Councils — Sunni militiamen who took extraordinary risks to side with U.S. troops in the fight against al-Qaida during the Iraq War. Once heralded as a pivotal step in the defeat of the bloody insurgency, the Sahwa later were pushed aside by Iraq’s Shiite-led government. Now, the Obama administration is looking at the Sahwa as a model...

Cochran win in Miss. a blow to Tea Party movementAssociated PressThe Washington establishment delivered a punch to the gut of the Tea Party movement Tuesday as Mississippi Republican Sen. Thad Cochran, a mainstream conservative with more than 40 years congressional experience, narrowly turned back a challenge from state Sen. Chris McDaniel. Outside conservative organizations and Tea Party groups had invested millions in Mississippi in hopes of knocking out...

Kentucky man admits role in Illinois bank holdupAssociated PressEAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. — A Kentucky man faces up to two decades in federal prison now that he has admitted in court that he robbed a southern Illinois bank last year.Twenty-eight-year-old Casey Allen Heflin of Boaz, Kentucky, pleaded guilty Monday in U.S. District Court in Benton.

Some Milwaukee owned lots could sell for $1Associated PressMILWAUKEE — Milwaukee’s common council has approved a plan to sell some city-owned lots that are vacant for $1.The city has 2,700 vacant residential lots and the legislation approved Tuesday involves about 15 percent of those on the north side. The $1 cost would be offered to adjacent property owners if the buyer lives in the city.

Alvarez defends decision to charge witnessAssociated PressCook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez has assured several prominent jurists that she won’t jump to charge any witnesses who later recant their testimony.The Chicago Sun-Times reports her assurance came in a recent letter responding to criticism that her office chose to charge a witness who claimed he lied at a murder trial.

Lindenwood University to open Collinsville campusAssociated PressCOLLINSVILLE, Ill. — The southwestern Illinois city of Collinsville is getting a satellite college campus this fall.The Belleville News-Democrat reports that Lindenwood University in Belleville will open the new campus in 15,000 square feet of leased space that will include seven classrooms, science lab, computer lab, lounge and office space.

Organic farmers may get reimbursed for credentialsAssociated PressSPRINGFIELD — Organic farmers in Illinois will be reimbursed for part of the cost of their federal certification. The Illinois Department of Agriculture announced Tuesday it will receive $271,800 from the federal government to reimburse organic growers and handlers who receive or renew certification this year.

Woman gets 7 years in identity-theft caseAssociated PressHARRISBURG, Ill. — A southern Illinois woman has been sentenced to seven years in prison for stealing the identity of a 72-year-old woman in her care.WSIL-TV reports that 46-year-old Kimberly Ital of Harrisburg also was ordered Tuesday by a Saline County Circuit Court judge to pay $52,000 in restitution.

Chicago, AFSCME give details of contract agreementAssociated PressThe 3,400 Chicago municipal workers represented by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees will receive 2 percent pay increases for each of its five years.Members of the union voted Tuesday to ratify the contract, which took two years to negotiate. The agreement is retroactive to July 1, 2012 and runs until June 30, 2017.

Man who drove into pond, died, had medical problemAssociated PressFORT WAYNE, Ind. — A northeastern Indiana coroner says a man who died after he drove his van into a pond had been stricken with a sudden medical problem just before the accident.But the Allen County coroner’s office didn’t say Tuesday what specific medical crisis 32-year-old Elijah M. Tanner suffered June 5 before his van entered the post.

Ground broken on housing for homeless veteransAssociated PressTERRE HAUTE, Ind. — Crews have broken ground on the first phase of a new western Indiana housing project designed specifically to house the region’s homeless, disabled veterans.

Houchin picked to chair Indiana prosecutors groupAssociated PressINDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys Council has picked Washington County prosecutor Dustin Houchin to lead its board of directors.The group announced Tuesday that Houchin would replace outgoing chairman Jarrod Holtsclaw of Greene County. The group also elected its other officers from the ranks of county prosecutors at its summer conference this week.

Six Elgin gardens featured in Fox Valley Garden WalkBy Lauren RohrThe gardens have been chosen and the plans are set for the sixth Fox Valley Garden Walk. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 28, visitors can admire the beauty of various gardens found at homes on the “Gold Coast” and the east side of Elgin.

Oakton replacing slab that crackedBy Christopher PlacekCrews are constructing a new concrete slab to replace one that was cracking at the site of Oakton Community College’s new $39 million Science and Health Careers Center in Des Plaines. The new slab is expected to be complete by November, according to Oakton President Margaret Lee.

Kane County nearly ready for medical marijuana businessesBy James FullerKane County is just a couple of weeks away from finalizing regulations that would oversee medical marijuana businesses in unincorporated areas. “There are some people looking at Kane County. But with these rules, I think we're ahead of the game in the event a proposal would come forward," committee member Mike Donahue said.

MyRehab short-term facility opening at Arlington Heights Lutheran HomeBy Melissa SilverbergThe first of a three-part, $64 million expansion and reconstruction at Arlington Heights-based Lutheran Home will open Wednesday and start taking patients early next month. MyRehab is a 78-room short-term rehabilitation facility for patients recovering from falls, surgery, pneumonia or any other condition that requires additional medical attention after a hospital stay, officials said.

Publicly owned golf courses losing money, and taxpayers payBy Jake GriffinA confluence of the economic downturn, declining interest in the sport, poor weather and a glut of course options has put many publicly owned and government-operated golf courses in the red -- and suburban taxpayers pay. “There are too many golf courses and not enough golfers,” said Michael Miller, executive director of the Illinois PGA. “For the health of the industry, some of...

Sports

Schurtz, Skoug make coaches’ all-state teamBy John LeuschRolling Meadows’ Erik Schurtz and Libertyville’s Evan Skoug have received final accolades for their 2014 prep baseball seasons. The Daily Herald all-area selections were named to the Illinois High School Baseball Coaches Association Class 4A all-state team. They will be honored at the Chicago White Sox game on July 21.

Pen implodes, Sox lose 5-4 in 12thBy Scot GregorWhite Sox fans were angry with manager Robin Ventura Wednesday night after his team couldn't hold a 4-0 lead in the eighth inning. Naturally, Ventura's decision making with the pitching staff was the chief topic of complaint.

Embiid's injury throws wrench into the NBA draftBy Mike McGrawThis year's NBA Draft was supposed to be special. It still might be, but there are plenty of question at the top. Meanwhile, the Bulls will decide how to best utilize picks No. 16 and 19 while also trying to clear cap space to make a run at Carmelo Anthony.

Grizzlies knock off BoomersSpecial to the Daily HeraldThe host Gateway Grizzlies jumped out to an early 4-0 lead en route to a 7-3 triumph over the Schaumburg Boomers in Frontier League action Wednesday.

Jackson can’t get on track, Cubs fall 4-1By Bruce MilesOf all the acquisitions made by Cubs president Theo Epstein and GM Jed Hoyer, pitcher Edwin Jackson is probably the most maddening. Consistency has eluded Jackson in his one-plus seasons with the Cubs, and so it was again in Wednesday night's 4-1 loss to the Reds.

Timber Rattlers hold off Cougars 3-2Special to the Daily HeraldJacob Rogers came oh-so-close to giving the Kane County Cougars another dramatic home victory, but the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers held on to win 3-2 Wednesday afternoon at Fifth Third Bank Ballpark in Geneva.

Thomas leads Sun past Sky, 79-69Rookie Alyssa Thomas scored 12 of her 23 points in the third quarter and had 11 rebounds to lead the Connecticut Sun to their sixth straight victory, 79-69 over the Sky on Wednesday night.It was Thomas eighth start, and her minutes have increased with starting guard Allison Hightower out with a sprained knee.”

Cubs calling up right-hander Beeler for Saturday doubleheaderBy Bruce MilesThe Cubs made somewhat of a surprise announcement Wedensday when manager Rick Renteria said right-hander Dallas Beeler will come up from Class AAA Iowa and start the first game of Saturday's day-night doubleader against the National at Wrigley Field. It will be Beeler's major-league debut.

Color me skeptical on Chicago River catfishBy Mike JacksonThe Chicago River is surely less polluted than in the past, but that doesn't make it a great sportfishing option. The release of catfish fingerlings should provide some indication about the overall water quality of the drainage system, but columnist Mike Jackson isn't convinced it will prove much.

France clinches top spot in Group E; Ecuador outAssociated PressFrance drew 0-0 with 10-man Ecuador to advance to the second round of the World Cup on Wednesday, while the South Americans will be going home from the tournament.In the other final Group E game, Switzerland defeated 3-0 Honduras to finish in second place and join France in the knockout stages.

Americans as underdogs a different dynamicBy Mike ImremThe United States normally is under immense pressure to be the best at everything and cure all the world's problems. In that context, it's kind of refreshing for the U.S. soccer team to be underdogs in the World Cup.

LA Kings re-sign Marian Gaborik to 7-year dealAssociated PressMarian Gaborik spent the last few months living at the beach and scoring clutch goals for the eventual Stanley Cup champions.The star left wing saw absolutely no reason to wake up from his dream life with the Los Angeles Kings.Gaborik agreed to a seven-year deal Wednesday to stay with the Kings, passing on the financial possibilities of unrestricted free agency to stay with the champs.

Bosnia beats Iran 3-1 in Group F at World CupAssociated PressBosnia-Herzegovina ended Iran’s hopes of advancing to the knockout stages with a 3-1 victory in Group F on Wednesday, registering its first World Cup win in the process. The Bosnians took a commanding 2-0 lead with goals from Edin Dzeko in the 23rd and Miralem Pjanic in the 53rd before Iran hit back in a desperate late bid to qualify for the second round.

Argentina beats Nigeria 3-2 as both teams advanceAssociated PressArgentina beat Nigeria 3-2 in their last World Cup group match on Wednesday, with Lionel Messi and Ahmed Musa scoring two goals each before Marcos Rojo kneed in the winner. Argentina won Group F while Nigeria also advanced despite the loss, becoming the first African team in the round of 16 in Brazil.

Suarez facing big financial hit from alleged biteAssociated PressLuis Suarez faces a financial hit following his alleged biting of Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini. Existing sponsorship deals could be ripped up, while future endorsements could be put in jeopardy. Already, two of his sponsors — 888poker and Adidas — have hinted that they may tear up their deals with Suarez.

Suarez dilemma: FIFA opens case on bite incidentAssociated PressLuis Suarez could become just as awkward for football’s international organizers to handle as he has been for rival teams at the World Cup. The Uruguay forward’s alleged bite into the left shoulder of Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini in a crucial group-stage game has hit a raw nerve at a tournament which has been characterized by a high quality of football and entertainment.

World Cup: What to watch WednesdayAssociated PressIt’s Day Three of the in-or-out matches of the World Cup, with six teams battling for three places in the knockout stages. Here are the things to watch for Wednesday.

Brazil mocks Mick Jagger as World Cup jinxAssociated PressMick Jagger can’t get no satisfaction from soccer fans in Brazil. In what’s becoming something of a World Cup tradition, Brazilians are closely following every team the 70-year-old rock star supports with an eye at mocking him for apparently casting bad spells on his picks. Italy was the latest victim of the Jagger jinx. At a concert in Rome Saturday night, Jagger predicted that four-time World Cup champion Italy would pull off a clutch victory over Uruguay to advance. The Italians lost 1-0 Tuesday and were headed home.

Norwegian wins bet on Suarez World Cup biteAssociated PressUruguay striker Luis Suarez’s practice of biting opponents seems to be a safe bet. More than 150 people across Europe put money down that he would do it again during the World Cup, and raked in winnings 175-fold, a Swedish gambling company said on Wednesday.

Woods says he’s ahead of schedule and without pain
By Doug FergusonTiger Woods returns to golf with big hopes, realistic expectations and no pain for the first time in nearly two years. Woods made his first public appearance in golf shoes since he walked gingerly off the golf course at Doral on March 9 with back pain that first presented itself in August 2012.

Business

Stocks edge higher despite economic dataAssociated PressThe U.S. stock market inched modestly higher Wednesday, recovering more than half of what it lost the day before, as investors were able to set aside two disappointing economic reports. CBS and other broadcasters rose after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of them over a startup Internet company in a closely watched copyright case.

AbbVie cites tax break as a Shire deal motivatorAssociated PressNorth Chicago-based drugmaker AbbVie sees a compelling tax break behind its roughly $46 billion bid to buy British counterpart Shire, and it expects the deal to expand Shire’s global reach as well. Leaders of the company laid out the reasoning behind their unsolicited, cash-and-stock offer during a Wednesday call with analysts two days after Shire PLC explained why it wasn’t interested in the deal.

Orders for U.S. durable goods drop 1 percent in MayAssociated PressOrders for U.S. durable goods tumbled 1 percent in May as demand for military equipment fell sharply. But excluding defense-related goods, orders actually rose, and orders in a key category that signals business investment also increased.

Barnes & Noble to separate retail, Nook MediaAssociated PressBarnes & Noble is going to split its retail and Nook Media businesses into two separate public companies as it looks to boost shareholder value. The company’s retail business includes its bookstores and BN.com businesses. Nook Media, in which Microsoft Corp. is an investor, houses the digital and college businesses of Barnes & Noble.

U.S. economy shrank at steep 2.9 percent rate in Q1Associated PressThe U.S. economy shrank at a steep annual rate of 2.9 percent in the January-March quarter as a harsh winter contributed to the biggest contraction since the depths of the recession five years ago. But the setback is widely thought to be temporary, with growth rebounding solidly since spring.

Monsanto earnings dip on lower biotech seed salesAssociated PressMonsanto said its earnings fell more than 5 percent in the third fiscal quarter on lower sales of biotech seeds, but its performance still topped Wall Street estimates and the company raised its 2014 outlook. It also announced plans to repurchase $10 billion in shares.

Google to show off smart home gadgets, wearablesBy BARBARA ORTUTAYAn Android update, wearable gadgets and so-called smart home devices are just some of the innovations Google is likely to show off at its two-day developer conference, which begins Wednesday in San Francisco. In recent years, the conference has focused on smartphones and tablets, but this year Google’s Android operating system is expected to stretch — into cars, homes and smartwatches.

Ukraine to sign EU deal that sparked revolutionAssociated PressOn Friday, Ukraine will sign a sweeping economic and trade agreement with the European Union, a 1,200-page telephone book of a document crammed with rules on everything from turkeys to tulips, cheese to machinery. Yet the agreement is far more than just fine print for experts — it was the catalyst of a revolution that killed scores of Ukrainians and toppled a president. The hope now is it that it will spark another kind of revolution, this one in Ukraine’s corrupt, underperforming economy.

Officials: Sanctions on Russia could be delayedAssociated PressSanctions aimed at key economic sectors in Russia because of its threatening moves in Ukraine might be delayed because of positive signals from Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to Obama administration officials.

Life & Entertainment

Robots, roller coasters and nostalgiaBy Sean StanglandWanna see giant robots? Sean has found a deal for you. How does an $8 coupon to see the new "Transformers" movie sound? Or, wanna relive the fun parks of your youth? Sean has found a TV show for you.

Keep your perennials blooming all season longBy Diana StollWhen we are walking down the aisles of our favorite garden center, it’s hard to resist the flowering perennials. Here are a few maintenance tips you can easily use to keep your perennials looking good the whole season.

Michael Cera steals Steppenwolf’s ‘Youth’By Barbara VitelloThose who came of age in the '80s will no doubt recognize the aimless, young adults in “This is Our Youth,” Kenneth Lonergan’s relentlessly authentic coming-of-age drama in a Steppenwolf Theatre revival. Some may even recognize themselves in this play, which stars the talented trio of Michael Cera, Kieran Culkin and Tavi Gevinson.

Muir replacing Sawyer at ABC’s ‘World News’By David Bauder, Associated PressABC News is making a generational change at the top of its evening newscast, replacing Diane Sawyer with 40-year-old understudy David Muir in an attempt to take a run at longtime ratings leader Brian Williams at NBC’s “Nightly News.” ABC also announced Wednesday that George Stephanopoulos will add the role of chief anchor for live news events and election nights to his current jobs as “Good Morning America” co-host and host of the Sunday-morning “This Week” political show.

Eli Wallach, veteran character actor, dies at 98Associated PressEli Wallach, the raspy-voiced character actor who starred in dozens of movies and Broadway plays over a remarkable and enduring career and earned film immortality as a conniving, quick-on-the-draw bandit in the classic Western “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly,” has died. He was 98.

Sand volleyball, outdoor patio give Gnarly J's a laid-back feelBy Samantha NelsonNew owners took over North Beach's former digs in Downers Grove in September, transforming the beach-themed spot on Butterfield Road into a laidback hangout called Gnarly J's. Here you'll find everyone from hipsters to bikers mingling while playing pool, sand volleyball or bags or watching games and enjoying the upgraded food and beer offerings.

Vote for your Suburban Chicago's Got Talent favoritesBy Scott C. MorganSee videos of the Top 20 finalists of Suburban Chicago's Got Talent and vote for your Fan Favorite at dailyherald.com. Voting goes through Sunday, and the contestant with the most votes will be guaranteed a spot in the next round of competition, the Top 15, which is set for Sunday, July 13, at the Prairie Center for the Arts in Schaumburg. Suburban Chicago's Got Talent is a talent competition co-sponsored by the Daily Herald, the Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce and the Prairie Center.

NBC: Jillian Michaels exiting ‘Biggest Loser’By Lynn Elber, Associated PressJillian Michaels is exiting “The Biggest Loser,” NBC and the producer of the weight-loss competition series said Wednesday. In a statement, the network and production company Shine America said they and trainer Michaels have decided to part ways, and she won’t be back on “Biggest Loser” this fall.

Getting Chris Brown to D.C. trial cost taxpayers more than $4KAssociated PressHe didn’t fly first class and his hotels weren’t five-star. Still, when singer Chris Brown was moved from a Los Angeles jail to Washington, D.C., for what was to have been the start of his trial on an assault charge, the cost to taxpayers was more than $4,000.

3T ending hiatus to take up Michael Jackson legacyAssociated PressMichael Jackson’s nephews and heirs to his musical talent say they are ready to take up the pop superstar’s legacy, ending a 15-year hiatus prolonged by his dispute with Sony and untimely death. Taj, TJ and Taryll Jackson, sons of Tito, one of the original Jackson Five, are preparing for a European tour this fall and are working on a new album, they said in an interview on the sidelines of Milan Fashion Week, which ended Tuesday.

Paul McCartney: Feeling better, ready to tourAssociated PressPaul McCartney says he’s feeling fab and ready to rock and roll. The 72-year-old former Beatle posted a brief YouTube video Tuesday night saying he’s recovered from a virus that forced him to cancel shows in Japan and South Korea, and delay the opening of a U.S. tour.

Oldman apologizes for defending Gibson and BaldwinBy David Bauder, Associated PressGary Oldman has apologized for defending fellow actors Mel Gibson and Alec Baldwin from critics of their controversial remarks about Jews and gays. “I am deeply remorseful that comments I recently made in the Playboy interview were offensive to many Jewish people,” Oldman wrote in an open letter to the Anti-Defamation League late Tuesday. “Upon reading my comments in print — I see how insensitive they may be, and how they may indeed contribute to the furtherance of a false stereotype.”

Night life events: Go country after dark at Arlington InternationalBy Sara HookerTuck the horses into bed and party into the night starting at 6 p.m. Friday, June 27, at Arlington International Racecourse’s Miller Lite Party in the Park After Dark — Country Night. For $25, enjoy a three-hour open Miller and Coors draft beer bar with branded beer mugs, as well as dancing, live music and giveaways.

MTV bringing ‘TRL’ back for 1 day with GrandeBy Mesfin Fekadu, Associated PressMTV will reprise its former “Total Request Live” countdown show for a day with breakthrough pop singer Ariana Grande. The network announced Wednesday it will bring back the series July 2. The 20-year-old will perform her latest hit on “Total Ariana Live,” debut her follow-up single and discuss her upcoming sophomore album.

Eggers’ ‘Fathers’ an angry take on changing worldBy Henry C. Jackson, Associated PressDave Eggers is angry. A writer both beloved and criticized for his distinctly sentimental bursts appears to be seething, worried about crumbling institutions, lost privacy, diminished intimacy and humanity in general. At least, that’s the impression left after digesting Eggers’ new, characteristically inventive novel, “Your Fathers, Where Are They? And the Prophets, Do They Live Forever?” It is a frothing, angry, mournful meditation on what is slipping away as America plows on into the 21st century.

Chunky slides and white shirts made new for summerBy Leanne Italie, Associated PressWhat’s hot for summer? Chunky slides, wide pants and white shirts reinvented. The season, it seems, isn’t cluttered with neons and bright prints in apparel, said Dana Avidan-Cohn, a senior editor at InStyle magazine. Florals and gingham popped up on runways, but she’s feeling more classic touches in solids made modern for summer’s easy living.

To meet a cheese challenge, Wegmans cavesBy Becky KrystalThe Wegmans 1916 Aged Goat Cheese is smooth, silky, a little grassy but not at all punctuated by the sharp tang that turns off so many people from other goat’s milk varieties. Dairy perfection has been achieved thanks to Eric Meredith, the recently anointed affineur (cheese ager), and his new toy, a 12,000-plus-square-foot cheese cave building not far from Wegmans company headquarters outside Rochester, N.Y.

Dinner at the museum: Real meal on fine ceramicsBy Eileen Glanton Loftus, Associated PressFive nights a week at the Philadelphia Art Alliance, 16 people sit down to dinner. They’re in the exhibit space, at a long pine farmhouse table set all day long with platters, bowls and vases made by a ceramic artist. The seven-course meal, which costs $150 a person, was created to showcase pottery by artist Gregg Moore, and the meal has drawn rave reviews from foodies. The art, Moore says, is created by the experience: the food, ceramics, museum space and people who dine there together.

Kick off ice cream season with crazy concoctionsBy Alison LadmanReady to move beyond basic vanilla or chocolate this ice cream season? Much as we love those classics, with so many crazy — and crazy delicious — flavor combinations flooding the freezer aisle of the supermarket, it’s hard to resist making some big, boldly flavored frozen concoctions of our own.

Mustard, sorghum add layers of flavor to porkBy Elizabeth Karmel, Associated PressElizabeth Karmel has created a quick cooking pork dish that is reminiscent of her grandmother's recipe, but meets her modern day schedule. The mustard-sorghum mop takes this easy grilled weeknight pork tenderloin from ordinary to extraordinary! A mop is a thin basting sauce that is “mopped” or dabbed on the food as it cooks.

The enigmatic warBy Richard CohenColumnist Richard Cohen: This is a splendid time to remember the First World War. It started 100 years ago this month with the June 28 shooting of the Austrian archduke and his wife. By the end of the summer, much of Europe was engaged in a war that lasted about four years, toppled four empires, precipitated the communist revolution, created by fiat the modern Middle East, recognized Zionism, made the U.S. a world power and cost the lives of about 10 million fighting men. Historians are still trying to figure out what happened.

Let’s stop and think before we actA Wheeling letter to the editor: If I ruled the world, (or America or Illinois), whenever any politician opened his or her mouth to propose a new law or idea, he or she would have to explain and prove why “this is good for America” before any discussion or news proliferation could begin.

Personal stories of Holocaust valuableA Rolling Meadows letter to the editor: My mother-in-law once belonged to a large, happy and prosperous family. She’d been an attorney, married to her first husband, a hospital administrator. They had a baby daughter whom they adored. Her parents disappeared first. They were arrested walking down the street, imprisoned and executed. Her husband was killed next, followed by her brother.

Thanks for success of Libertyville DaysA Libertyville letter to the editor: On behalf of the Libertyville Civic Center Foundation I would like to give a huge thank you to all of the community members, sponsors, hard-working volunteers and vendors that have assisted us in putting on another incredibly joyous and successful Libertyville Days Festival.

Misrepresentations border on treasonA Kildeer letter to the editor: Each day for many years I have read the Fence Post. The comments therein never cease to amaze me, made by people who do not keep themselves properly informed or have forgotten the evolution of our political history.

Holocaust education still relevant, neededA Buffalo Grove letter to the editor: Article: “Remember the Past, Transform the Future” is the vision statement of the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center. This message to all visitors, old and young alike, has relevance and meaning today as it did so many years ago.